Warning: 2 easily confused diseases causing unpredictable consequences when Ho Chi Minh City turns cold

(Dan Tri) - In recent days, the weather in Ho Chi Minh City has become cold with temperatures dropping at night and early morning. Many people start their day with sneezing and stuffy noses, causing disruptions in their daily activities.

According to Dr. Tran Ngoc Manh, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Saigon South International General Hospital (HCMC), many people think that sneezing and stuffy nose are signs of the common cold. But if this condition recurs every day or persists, you may have allergic rhinitis, especially weather allergies, a disease that affects about 32% of the population.

Two common diseases , unpredictable consequences

Dr. Manh said that in terms of symptoms, colds and allergic rhinitis have many similarities such as stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing. This often makes patients subjective, self-treat at home or confuse the two diseases. However, these two conditions are completely different in cause and treatment.

The common cold is a viral infection. Symptoms include a runny nose, body aches, cough, fatigue, and sometimes a mild fever. The disease is more likely to occur when the immune system is weakened, the weather changes, or when you come into contact with someone who has a cold. Usually, a cold will go away on its own after a few days of rest and proper care.

The streets of Ho Chi Minh City have turned cold in recent days. Doctors recommend keeping warm to improve resistance (Photo: Hoang Huong).

In contrast, allergic rhinitis is not caused by a virus but is an overreaction of the immune system to environmental stimuli.

Common triggers for this condition include pollen, dust mites, mold, cat and dog hair, pet dander, or even strong scents from perfumes and cleaning products. When exposed to allergens, the body releases inflammatory substances, creating a series of uncomfortable symptoms in the upper respiratory tract.

Unlike a cold, which usually lasts only a few days, allergic rhinitis is chronic or recurrent. Patients may experience symptoms such as: nasal congestion, runny nose or constant sneezing; red, itchy or watery eyes; itchy nose, itchy throat, or even itchy ears; difficulty breathing, wheezing, especially in the morning or at night.

These symptoms not only cause discomfort but also greatly affect daily activities, causing the patient to have poor sleep, reduce concentration at work or study, and reduce the quality of life. In young children, prolonged allergic rhinitis can lead to sinusitis, otitis media, or prolonged wheezing.

Cold weather "triggers" allergic rhinitis

According to Dr. Tran Ngoc Manh, the cold weather in Ho Chi Minh City in recent days can be a factor in triggering or aggravating the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Cold air makes the nasal mucosa more sensitive, and at the same time makes allergens in the environment such as fine dust, pollen or mold easily spread.

In addition, keeping the doors closed in cold weather makes the space less ventilated, causing more dust and mold to accumulate. This leads to the patient being exposed to allergens at a higher frequency, making the symptoms worse.

Allergic rhinitis is a common disease and can be completely controlled if detected early and treated properly.

Dr. Manh advises patients to limit exposure to known irritants, clean their noses with saline, keep their homes well-ventilated and clean dust and mold regularly, wear masks when going out or working in dusty environments, use medication as prescribed by their doctor, and avoid self-medication for long periods of time.

If symptoms of nasal congestion and sneezing persist for several days despite trying home remedies, the patient should visit a specialist medical facility for an accurate diagnosis. Late or improper treatment can cause the disease to progress to chronic allergic rhinitis or other dangerous respiratory complications.

An ENT specialist examines a patient (Photo: BVCC).

"Recently, the number of patients coming to our hospital for examination due to prolonged nasal congestion has increased significantly, most of whom are diagnosed with allergic rhinitis.

Nam Sai Gon Hospital is equipped with a modern diagnostic system and a team of experienced doctors. Patients can rest assured that they will be examined and treated quickly, safely and effectively," said Dr. Tran Ngoc Manh.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/canh-bao-2-benh-ly-de-nham-lan-gay-he-qua-kho-luong-khi-tphcm-tro-lanh-20251208155832352.htm